Nestled in the heart of Angra do Heroísmo, on Terceira Island in the Azores, Jardim Duque da Terceira offers a unique combination of natural beauty, history, and tranquility, with a legacy spanning over 140 years. Join us as we uncover the location and fascinating history of this unique green haven in the archipelago.
What is Jardim Duque da Terceira
History
Jardim Duque da Terceira was founded in 1882 and was initially designed as a plant acclimatization space. It evolved into a leisure spot and a tribute to the Duke of Terceira. The garden came into existence when the City of Angra do Heroísmo acquired land from the Jesuit College and the Convento de São Francisco. In 1888, it was renamed ‘Passeio Duque da Terceira’ in honor of António José de Sousa Manuel de Meneses Severim de Noronha. He is the 1st Duke of Terceira and a key leader during the Liberal Wars.
Over the years, the green space has undergone several interventions that improved its structure and biodiversity. These improvements allowed it to become one of the most charming green spaces in the Azores. Its combination of historical, cultural, and natural elements makes it a must-visit location for anyone exploring Terceira Island.
Location
Jardim Duque da Terceira is located in the heart of Angra do Heroísmo, on Terceira Island in the Azores archipelago. As one of the island’s most captivating green spaces, it is near landmarks, including the Convento de São Francisco and the Angra do Heroísmo Museum.
Key Landmarks of Jardim Duque da Terceira
Jardim Duque da Terceira is a botanical paradise, home to a diverse collection of plant species from all over the world. As you stroll through the garden, you’ll walk along traditional Azorean cobblestone pathways crafted from volcanic stones formed by the rapid cooling of lava. These paths, which connect the garden’s various levels, enhance the beauty of the space and evoke the island’s volcanic origins and the local tradition of utilizing its natural resources.
Among the garden’s impressive flora, you’ll find centuries-old trees, including Araucarias, Metrosideros, and Magnolias, adding a sense of timelessness to the landscape. As you explore, be sure to look down — the cobblestones are adorned with designs that pay tribute to important species and figures, such as the renowned Almeida Garrett.
At the highest point of the garden, you’ll discover “Alto da Memória”, an obelisk erected in honor of King Pedro IV. From here, enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Angra do Heroísmo. Another highlight is the “Tanque do Preto”, an old irrigation tank adorned with a sculpture of a Brazilian indigenous person, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.
The garden also boasts tile panels from 1740, depicting the Parable of the Prodigal Son, adding an artistic touch. Covering over 31,600 m², this garden is now a complex of parks and buildings. Making it an essential destination for nature and history lovers.
Quick Info
If you’re visiting with children, the garden features a playground, offering a fun and relaxing space for the whole family to enjoy.
Plan Your Visit to Jardim Duque da Terceira
Best Season to Visit
Jardim Duque da Terceira offers a unique year-round experience thanks to the island’s mild climate and rich biodiversity. The weather remains pleasant throughout the year, making it an ideal destination no matter when you visit. Temperatures on Terceira Island remain fairly stable throughout the year, typically ranging between:
- 14 °C in winter;
- 16 °C in spring;
- 22 °C in summer;
- 18 °C in autumn.
This consistency allows visitors to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, vineyard tours, and exploring natural pools, no matter the season. However, summer is best for swimming, snorkeling, and basking on the island’s sunny days.
Check all our articles about the weather in the Azores throughout the year 🌤️ ☔️: January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
Where to Eat
Click on the following link to find a place to eat near Duque da Terceira Garden. It will take you to TripAdvisor, where you can review the 10 best restaurants.
Where to Stay
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Authors’ Note
I am pleased to inform you that all the recommendations in this article are based on my personal experience and observations. As the author, I have personally visited each attraction mentioned, ensuring that every suggestion is grounded in first-hand knowledge and genuine enthusiasm.
Complementary Information
Best Season to Visit the Azores
The Azores Archipelago boasts a unique climate that shapes its lush landscapes, making it a splendid year-round destination. With mild temperatures and minimal fluctuations, each season offers something unique. Spring averages 16 °C, summer reaches 21 °C, autumn cools to 18 °C, and winter remains mild at 14 °C.
→ For a detailed breakdown of the weather by month, check the following links 🌤️☔️: January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
How to Get to the Azores
The Azorean Archipelago is easily accessible through numerous flight routes. Lisbon and Porto are the main entry points to the continent, with direct flights available to São Miguel (PDL), Terceira (TER), Faial (HOR), Pico (PIX), and Santa Maria (SMA). To find the best flight, use search engines like eDreams or Skyscanner. These platforms enable you to compare prices and schedules from various airlines in one convenient location.
For more details on how to get to the Azores, take a look at our complete guide. But what if you want to explore beyond your arrival island? We’ve got you covered!
- Azores airports 🛬
- Flights between islands ✈️
- Ferries between islands ⛴️
- Which island to choose? 🏝️
- What airlines fly to the Azores? 🛩️
→ Once you’ve found the perfect route, book your tickets and get ready to experience one of the world’s most stunning island groups!
Travel Essentials
Essential Information for your Azores trip: Azorean Language & Phrases 🗣️ | Currency & Banks 💵 | Credit Cards & Traveler’s Cheques 🏧 | Driving in the Azores 🚗 | Electricity 🔌 | Experiences & Tours 🗺️ | Health & Safety 🩺 | Internet & Wi-Fi Access 🛜 | Phones & Mobile Service 📞 | Post Offices & Buying Stamps ✉️ | Public Holidays 🏖️ | Shopping 🛒 | Time & Daylight 🕒 | Whale Watching Guide 🐳 | Best Island to Visit 🏞️
Useful Tools & Apps
The weather in the Azores can be variable, so it’s helpful to use some apps before visiting the islands. Spotazores provides live camera feeds from the main tourist attractions, allowing you to check the weather and plan your visit. For accurate weather predictions, use Windy or Windguru — they provide the most reliable predictions.
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FAQs
Duque da Terceira Garden is located in the center of Angra do Heroísmo, on the Island of Terceira, near landmarks such as the Convento de São Francisco and the Angra do Heroísmo Museum.
In the garden, you can explore centuries-old trees, the “Alto da Memória” with panoramic views, the “Tanque do Preto” with its historical sculpture, 18th-century tile panels, a playground, and fascinating plant species from around the world.
Duque da Terceira Garden is open every day of the week, from 8 am to 6 pm, offering an accessible space for leisure and discovery.
The garden houses a wide variety of flora, including non-native and endemic trees like Araucarias, Metrosideros, and Magnolias, as well as vegetation of volcanic origin.
Check all our articles about each one of the most relevant points of interest on Terceira Island: Algar do Carvão | Biscoitos | Furnas do Enxofre | Gruta do Natal | Jardim Duque da Terceira | Lagoa das Patas | Miradouro Serra do Cume | Miradouro da Serra de Santa Bárbara | Monte Brasil | Ponta das Contendas | Praia da Vitória | Gruta das Agulhas | Ilhéus das Cabras | Miradouro do Facho
